Imports of Chinese products into Brazil rose 58% in May, in comparison with April. Exports, on the other hand, fell 23%, mainly in consequence of the drop in sales of soybeans and cast iron.
These figures were announced June 1st by the secretary of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Development, Industry, and Foreign Trade, Ivan Ramalho.
Since soybeans represent a significant item in Brazil’s export portfolio, the secretary said it will be important to assess the reason for this decline.
But, in principle, he thinks it has to do with price variations on the international market, logistical questions, or harvest expectations.
Ramalho affirmed that the government is studying the decrees that provide for safeguarding the interests of Brazil and China within the norms of the World Trade Organization, a matter that has already been discussed with the Asian country.
Only after these norms are determined will the Brazilian entrepreneurs who feel that they are being injured by competition from Chinese products be able to present their arguments for the question then to be analyzed by the government.
A definition may be reached by July, according to Ramalho. The secretary of Foreign Trade forecasts that, despite this month’s decline, exports to China will continue to grow.
Agência Brasil